Avoiding Common Tree Mistakes

Three Things To Think About Before You Have That Tree Removed

15 January 2019
by Chiara Brun

If you're like most homeowners, you really value the trees in your yard for the aesthetic beauty they provide as well as the shade. You may also receive added benefits of fresh fruit or nuts and wind protection from your trees. However, even though many types of trees are extremely long-lived, nothing lasts forever, and the time may come when having a specific tree removed may be the best course of action. Many homeowners struggle with making the decision to remove a tree, but the decision will get easier if you ask yourself the following three questions.

Does the Tree Pose a Danger to People or Property?

If you live in an area that experiences high winds, an old tree in your yard that has dead limbs and branches poses a potential danger to your property as well as household occupants, neighbors, and passerby. Not only could the tree easily be blown down during a heavy windstorm, some of the branches could be weakened to the extent that they may fall down during a slight breeze or other small disruption. Besides the possibility of someone getting hurt, you have to consider potential liability as a homeowner — you probably don't want to have to buy your neighbor a new car if a heavy tree branch falls on their current one.

Does the Tree Harbor Pests?

All trees harbor pests to some extent, and that's only natural. However, if your tree is infested with one of the destructive boring insects, you may be better off removing the tree entirely depending on how far along the problem is. In some cases, insecticides help keep infestations in check, but many homeowners are trying to curb their use. Depending on jurisdiction, you may be required by law to remove trees infected with the emerald ash borer.

Does the Tree Have Fruiting Fungi at Its Base?

Mushrooms and other fruiting fungi at the base of a tree may have a charmingly picturesque appearance, but it also serves as a sign that the tree is suffering from an internal fungal infection that can't be cured. Fungal pathogens attack trees from the inside out, so by the time they are visible near the base of the tree, they have already destroyed the tree's interior.

Your local arborist is a great resource if you're not sure whether or not it's time to schedule a professional tree removal service.

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About Me

I have always been one of those people who isn't afraid to get their hands dirty, which is why I started trimming my own trees. However, after doing it by myself for a few years, I realized that my yard was starting to look a little DIY, which wasn't the look that I was going for. To make things right, I decided to invest in a professional tree service who could come out and fix up my yard. They were amazing to work with, and they even came with all of their own equipment. This blog is all about the benefits of professional tree care, versus doing things on your own.